Five Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Dating
As we are starting to creep into September we all know the “cuffin’ season post are slowly approaching. “Take his hoodie season” and or “mood” relationship photo inspirations are coming and some of us are not ready. I am going through a little sabbatical from dating to figure out what I want in a partner and/or what I can offer to my partner. I think everyone needs to do this or even ask yourself some questions before jumping into a situationship and/or relationship. It is important to not bring your past trauma to your new situation.
Before you accept that date - here are some questions you should consider:
Before You Start Dating
Have you let go of any past relationship trauma?
Enough said. If you haven’t spare the next person the headache.
Are you dating for the right reasons?
It is very important to note that dating should be fun. Dating should be about learning more about yourself and other people. If you are dating to mask the feeling of being lonely … you should not be dating anyone.
Do you know your “non-negotiables”?
You are probably asking yourself, what the heck is that? In life, especially in dating, you need the non-negotiables, both men and women. These are the things that you say absolutely no too. For example, one of mines is dates. I like to spend time with people so you must like dating. That doesn’t mean spending $69,694 on a date but you must be able to go out and want to go out. If you can’t double date with my friends, then you ain’t the man for me. Discuss with yourself the things you want in a partner, keep note of those things. If you meet someone and they embody one of these things - dismiss em. Save yourself the he or she can change mindsets - no one changes unless they actually want to.
Are you open for change?
When you meet someone you have to be open for your routine and lifestyle to change. Dating and being in a relationship is all about compromise and creating a new routine. If you are opposed to change, dating ain’t for you sis. While in the beginning someone would be open to all of this and say they do not care as the months go along - he or she will get tired and this too will start a fight.
Do you have time?
TIME.TIME.TIME. Dating is not for the weak. One important thing you need to ask yourself is, do you have time to bring someone into your life? Dating can be time consuming. With the dates, the text messages and the sleepovers - I can promise you that your alone time will be cut in half. It also doesn’t make sense to bring someone on and then decide later when the emotions are established that this is not for you. Before you accept that date offer or before you ask he or she on date - be sure to ask yourself if you have time to keep this up.
Are you ready?
It is a very simple question. Dating comes with some disappointments. Not everyone is going to be prince charming. Not everyone is going to do what you want them to do. Are you ready to roll with the punches?
Remember dating is supposed to be fun. You are supposed to take the dating stage to learn about you and what you want. Before jumping into another situation - ask yourself if you are ready and if this is what you want.